C.S. Lewis's The Abolition of Man remains a potent and timely work, its warnings about the dangers of a subjectivist worldview still resonating deeply today. While often perceived as a pessimistic critique of modern education, the book ultimately offers a beacon of hope, reminding us of the enduring importance of objective truth and the inherent dignity of humanity. Let's explore some key quotes and delve into their enduring significance.
"The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles but to irrigate deserts."
This powerful opening line sets the stage for Lewis's argument. He's not criticizing the removal of undesirable elements from education, but rather the lack of fertile ground in which virtue and objective truth can flourish. Modern education, he argues, often focuses on subjective opinions and emotional responses at the expense of cultivating a robust understanding of objective morality and the natural order. The "desert" represents a barren intellectual landscape devoid of the essential nourishment of traditional values and objective standards.
"We make men without chests and expect of them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honour and are shocked to find traitors in our midst."
This quote highlights a central theme: the danger of separating intellect from emotion. Lewis argues that the "chest" represents the seat of emotions, instincts, and ingrained moral values – the very things that shape our character and guide our actions. By prioritizing reason alone and neglecting the cultivation of these moral sentiments, we create individuals capable of intellectual brilliance but devoid of the moral compass needed for virtuous action. The result, Lewis warns, is a society vulnerable to betrayal and moral decay.
"Men without chests" - What does this mean?
Lewis's concept of "men without chests" is central to his argument. It doesn't refer to a physical lack, but rather a deficiency in moral and emotional development. These are individuals whose intellect is divorced from their emotions and moral intuitions, leading to a capacity for great intellectual achievement but a profound lack of virtue and moral judgment. They lack the "chest" – the emotional and moral core – that anchors their reasoning and guides their actions towards the good.
"To be in disagreement with the Tao is to be in disagreement with reality."
The "Tao," in this context, refers to the natural law, the inherent order of the universe, and the objective moral principles that govern it. Lewis posits that this Tao is not a human invention but a pre-existing reality that we can discover through reason and observation. Rejecting the Tao, then, is not simply a matter of personal preference but a rejection of reality itself – a refusal to acknowledge the objective truths that shape our existence.
"The final stage is come when one who has denied the reality of all standards of value is compelled to deny the reality of all values."
This quote illustrates the logical progression of subjectivism. If we deny the existence of objective moral standards, we ultimately undermine the very concept of value itself. The consequence is nihilism – a belief that nothing has inherent value or meaning. This is the bleak endpoint Lewis warns against, a world devoid of purpose and direction.
What is the "Tao" in The Abolition of Man?
The Tao, as presented in The Abolition of Man, is not a specific religion or creed. It represents the universal moral law, the underlying order and principles that govern reality and human behavior. It's a concept encompassing objective truth and values that are not subject to individual whims or cultural preferences. Lewis argues that ignoring the Tao leads to moral chaos and the destruction of humanity itself.
Conclusion: A Call to Moral Education
The Abolition of Man is not simply a pessimistic critique but a passionate call to action. Lewis urges a return to a system of education that cultivates not just intellect but also character, that nourishes the "chest" as well as the mind. By understanding and embracing objective morality, Lewis suggests, we can build a society based on virtue, integrity, and a deep respect for the inherent dignity of human life. His words continue to serve as a vital reminder of the ongoing struggle to preserve the foundations of a just and flourishing human existence.
